When it comes to security equipment, Ring and Blink, both owned by Amazon, have a healthy sibling rivalry. However, these two brands are not interchangeable. There are significant differences that you should consider if you’re looking for security equipment.

Blink and Ring: Features and Technology

Before diving into the differences between Blink and Ring, it’s important to identify your must-haves, nice-to-haves, and deal-breakers while keeping your budget in mind.

Blink Features and Technology

• Up to Ten Cameras: Blink’s video surveillance system can handle multiple cameras. You can connect up to ten cameras to the same hub, making it perfect for larger houses.
• Motion-Triggered Recording: Blink cameras have built-in motion sensors that initiate recording whenever motion is detected. This saves storage space by only capturing relevant activity.
• Onboard Storage: Blink stores video recordings internally, although storage space is limited. You can also choose a paid cloud storage plan for virtually unlimited storage.
• Easy DIY Installation: Most of Blink’s battery-powered cameras can be installed in minutes, without drilling or wiring. Their installation is simpler than many DIY cameras on the market.
• 1080p HD Image Quality: Blink cameras deliver clear and crisp 1080p HD resolution for both indoor and outdoor models.
• Indoor/Outdoor Cameras: Blink offers indoor and outdoor cameras, allowing you to monitor all areas of your home. They also have an affordable indoor camera, the Blink Mini, a budget-friendly video doorbell, and an outdoor lighting accessory for the Blink Outdoor.

The newest addition to Blink’s camera lineup is the plug-in Mini Pan-Tilt. With its 360-degree field of vision and remote access via the Blink app, this camera covers an entire room. It’s currently priced at $41.99.

Ring Features and Technology

• Entry Sensors: Ring Alarm’s entry sensors notify you when someone enters your home through an exterior door or window. These sensors seamlessly communicate with Ring’s cameras.
• Doorbell Cameras: Ring is known for its doorbell cameras, providing real-time video feeds of your front door. Features include 1080p HD image quality, two-way talk, and night vision.
• Indoor/Outdoor Cameras: Ring offers a range of security cameras for both indoor and outdoor use. Their outdoor cameras are designed to withstand harsh weather conditions.
• Home Automation: Ring offers smart lighting and camera automation options, allowing you to control your security system and lights with your mobile device. It’s also compatible with other smart products.
• Alexa Compatibility: Ring cameras are compatible with Alexa, providing hands-free voice control over your home video surveillance system. They also work with Google Home.
• Spotlights & Floodlights: Ring cameras are equipped with built-in spotlights and floodlights, providing active deterrence against potential intruders.

Similarities Between Blink and Ring

Despite their differences, Blink and Ring do share some similarities:

• Affordability: Both options are reasonably priced, with no long-term contracts or installation fees. They are completely DIY systems.
• HD Video: Blink and Ring offer high-quality video resolution, ensuring clear images for monitoring your home.
• Wireless Home Security: Both systems are wireless and can be easily installed in minutes, unlike non-wireless systems that require professional installation and additional costs.
• DIY Installation: Ring’s equipment is mostly battery-powered or plug-in for easy DIY installation. Blink also offers quick and hassle-free installation.
• Two-Way Talk: Both Blink and Ring cameras feature two-way talk functionality, allowing communication through the companion app.
• Night Vision: Both brands provide night vision capabilities, ensuring visibility in low-light conditions.

Differences Between Blink and Ring

While there is some overlap between Blink and Ring, there are key differences to consider:

• Camera Selection: Blink offers a total of seven products, while Ring has a more extensive selection, especially in the doorbell category.
• Range of Protection: Ring offers a wider range of protection, including outdoor cameras with floodlights and intrusion protection using door/window sensors. Blink’s product range is more limited.
• Reputation: Ring is a well-known brand with years of experience, backed by Amazon. Blink is still establishing its position in the market.
• Field of Vision: Ring cameras offer a broader field of vision, with some models boasting up to 160 degrees compared to Blink’s 110 degrees. However, Blink now offers the Mini Pan-Tilt camera with 360-degree coverage.
• Intrusion Protection: Ring’s additional offerings include the Ring Alarm home security system, which provides an extra layer of security with door/window sensors, motion sensors, and professional monitoring. Blink lacks these features.
• Professional Monitoring: Only Ring offers 24/7 professional monitoring through the Ring Protect Pro plan. Blink requires manual monitoring and alerting authorities if necessary.
• Pet Monitoring: Ring offers custom features tailored to pet owners, including the ability to track pets and monitor their activities.

Considering these factors, Ring offers a more comprehensive camera system than Blink. However, Blink is a great choice for affordable indoor camera systems. Both brands provide quality cameras and reliable performance.

Costs and Fees: Blink vs. Ring

Blink cameras are affordable, with prices starting at $79 for the Blink Indoor and $99.99 for the Blink Outdoor. The Blink Mini indoor cam is priced at $34.99, and the Mini Pan-Tilt at $59.99.

On the other hand, Ring cameras are slightly more expensive. Ring Indoor starts at $39.99, while outdoor cameras range up to $249.99 for the Spotlight Cam Pro.

While Blink offers more budget-friendly options, Ring provides a wider range of products and enhanced home protection. Consider your specific needs and preferences when making a decision.

Effectiveness of Surveillance Systems

Video surveillance systems serve three main purposes: deterring potential threats, keeping you informed, and notifying you in emergencies. Visible cameras act as deterrents, discouraging criminals from targeting your home.

These systems also enable remote monitoring, allowing you to keep an eye on your property and receive notifications about deliveries, visitors, and potential criminal activity. Additionally, they provide alerts and alarms in case of emergencies.

Overall, surveillance systems like Ring and Blink are effective in enhancing home security.

The Bottom Line: Ring vs. Blink

When choosing between Ring and Blink, consider your specific requirements, perform thorough research, and weigh your options based on your budget, family, and home. Both systems have their strengths and limitations.

That being said, Ring comes out as the better camera system due to its build quality, features, and wider range of devices and home alarm components. However, Blink offers an affordable indoor camera system with excellent resolution and motion detection capabilities. Ultimately, the choice depends on your priorities.